THE
FORREST POST
FEBRUARY 2022
FREE
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land and waters around us, and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. We respect their cultural heritage, knowledge here in Forrest where the waters flow over Gadubanud and Gulidjan
PV Solar system at the Shed
Coming soon! Forrest Regatta.
Since the installation of the PV system (3.7 kW solar panels, 5kW inverter, Ubi™ unit and 4kW battery) at the Forrest Men’s Shed (FMS) on 14th December 2021, it has produced 890 kWh. This brought the installed renewable energy capacity in Forrest to 205 kW (32.7% of dwellings); the highest in the Shire (Cororooke, 202 kW). The percentage of dwellings with solar installations Shire-wide is 17% whereas Cororooke is 36.6%, Forrest 32%, Birregurra 29% and Apollo Bay 14%.
A joint effort by The Forrest Early Learning Centre, Lions Club and The Forrest Men's Shed, the Regatta will be held at the school sometime after Easter. Boats are being made in the Shed with the children adding their unique decorations for race day. All are Welcome to attend this fun community activity. Marita kennedy
It is worth noting that the potential of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation capacity in Forrest is 4277 kW; approximately 200 times the currently installed capacity.
Remembering Kris Reinertsen
The amount of energy produced in 50 days contributed to reducing CO2 emissions by 1010 kg. The FMS installation is part of “Geelong Community Solar -G21” program. Therefore, FMS joined the Mondo “Virtual Power Plant”. By the virtue of the installed Ubi unit, the Shed is able to trade some of its battery energy to the grid. Under the terms of the agreement, FMS sells from its battery at a good rate ($1 per kWh). Electricity distributors view trading energy locally favourable as it reduces the demand on upgrading their infrastructure assets. Moreover, with more solar installations in Forrest, the community can establish an energy enterprise. The G21 program is a unique chance for homeowners and businesses to leverage the buying power of the community to enjoy clean, affordable energy. To be part of the Community Solar Program, check https://www. geelongcommunitysolar.com.au/
Nasser Kotb
The Forrest and Barwon Downs communities were saddened at the sudden loss of their friend and mentor. Kris was a stalwart of the King Parrot Pickers bluegrass group, which he named, that was formed out of the Men's Shed jammers. He was a proficient jazz musician, multi instrumentalist, teacher and mentor to the group. He played Tea Chest Bass, and freely shared his knowledge of music and country. A proud Norwegian Australian with close ties to the First Nations Community. Kris will be greatly missed. Marita kennedy
COMEDY FOR A CAUSE: Saturday 12th March 2022